What you consider important in our investment policy – and what we will do with your input
In 2025, MarketResponse studied what people saving up for a pension with PME think about our investment policy. The study consisted of a questionnaire and face-to-face interviews, including with employers in the sector. Find out below what we learned and what we intend to do with it.
This is what we heard from our members
Many people perceive PME to be a reliable pension fund that handles their money with care. They trust us. That makes us confident for the future. At the same time, it appears that investing is complicated for many people. They also have the impression that they have little direct influence. Partly for this reason, PME sometimes feels distant and remote.
To many people, the return on their investment is clearly the most important issue. The majority want us to strive for maximum yield, while not losing sight of people and the environment. As one of the interviewees said: ‘I want a good pension, but I also want my fund to invest somewhat responsibly.’ This balance is important to many.
Key themes in the study
People are most supportive of investing in sectors that matter to them: think of investments in health care, affordable rental housing and the energy transition. Many people also like investments to contribute to the sector in which they and their colleagues work. That feels logical and familiar.
In addition, support for investments in nuclear energy and defence is growing. Members see this as a way to contribute to safety and stability. For example, one member said: ‘Five years ago, investing in defence really wasn’t my preference, but now I bring it up myself without being asked.’
At the same time, however, people draw a clear line. They reject investing in companies involved in gambling, fur and tobacco. A large majority have long regarded companies in these sectors as undesirable.
What we intend to do with this input
The outcomes of the study make it easier for us to make certain choices. As before, we will not invest in companies involved in fur and tobacco. And because this study again confirms that most people dislike investing in the gambling industry, we will stop doing so.
First and foremost, we will continue to invest to deliver a viable pension in a liveable world. Furthermore, we will continue to invest in the Netherlands, with a special focus on our own sector. This is good for innovation, employment and the future of our country.
In addition, we will work on our communication. As part of this, we will share examples of projects in which we invest more often, because – as several people have pointed out – the more specific these examples, the better.